The 2009 eruption of Redoubt continues and the summit lava dome continues to grow. Small rock avalanches, discrete earthquakes and minor volcanic tremor have been evident in seismic data over the past 24 hours. The lava dome has been visible in web camera images today and a robust steam plume rising from the southern part of the dome base is present. Rock avalanches have been occurring intermittently and are producing diffuse low level ash plumes that are too small to be detected in radar or satellite data.

AVO scientists who overflew the volcano yesterday report that a steaming, turquoise lake still exists along the south margin of the dome, and a persistent, vigorous fumarole on the west wall of the upper gorge was very active (and hot according to FLIR). No creases, cracks, or other signs of instability, at least to the naked eye are present on the surface of the dome, although the front is quite steep.

If a lava dome collapse occurs, or if the dome is removed by a sudden explosive event, significant ash emissions, possibly >30,000 feet above sea level, and trace to minor ash fall on communities in south-central Alaska could occur. Pyroclastic flows associated with dome collapse or removal also may develop, and they could initiate lahars and floods in the Drift River valley.

AVO is monitoring Redoubt volcano closely and the observatory is staffed 24/7. AVO will provide frequent updates of the volcano's status and the earliest possible warning of significant explosive activity and other hazardous phenomena.

Seismicity at Veniaminof has been low but above background levels over the past 24 hours. Seismic activity is characterized by short periods of low amplitude volcanic tremor and some discrete earthquakes. No unusual activity has been observed in satellite data today, and AVO has received no reports of unusual activity from from pilots or observers in the area.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory is a cooperative program of the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, and the Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys.

VOLCANO ALERT LEVELS

NORMALVolcano is in typical background, noneruptive state or, after a change from a higher level, volcanic activity has ceased and volcano has returned to noneruptive background state.

ADVISORYVolcano is exhibiting signs of elevated unrest above known background level or, after a change from a higher level, volcanic activity has decreased significantly but continues to be closely monitored for possible renewed increase.

WATCHVolcano is exhibiting heightened or escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption, timeframe uncertain, OR eruption is underway but poses limited hazards.

WARNINGHazardous eruption is imminent, underway, or suspected.

AVIATION COLOR CODES

GREENVolcano is in typical background, noneruptive state or, after a change from a higher level, volcanic activity has ceased and volcano has returned to noneruptive background state.

YELLOWVolcano is exhibiting signs of elevated unrest above known background level or, after a change from a higher level, volcanic activity has decreased significantly but continues to be closely monitored for possible renewed increase.

ORANGEVolcano is exhibiting heightened or escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption, timeframe uncertain, OR eruption is underway with no or minor volcanic-ash emissions [ash-plume height specified, if possible].

REDEruption is imminent with significant emission of volcanic ash into the atmosphere likely OR eruption is underway or suspected with significant emission of volcanic ash into the atmosphere [ash-plume height specified, if possible].